GTA VI Trailer Sparks Speculation of Shared Universe with Red Dead Redemption

May 9, 2025
GTA VI Trailer Sparks Speculation of Shared Universe with Red Dead Redemption
  • The highly anticipated second trailer for Grand Theft Auto VI, which showcases Vice City, has quickly become one of the most-watched trailers on YouTube.

  • In a notable moment, the trailer features a brief reference to Red Dead Redemption 2, hinting at a potential shared universe between the two iconic games.

  • Characters from the Red Dead Redemption 2 universe, including President Thaddeus Waxman, appear on dollar bills during a strip club scene in GTA VI, further connecting their timelines.

  • Waxman, who was a character in Red Dead Redemption 2, led the country starting in 1899, aligning with the historical context of both games.

  • The appearance of Waxman's face on currency in GTA VI suggests a narrative continuity that spans both titles.

  • Fans have noted this connection, particularly in how money is depicted in the club scene, drawing parallels to the Red Dead universe.

  • A Reddit user pointed out that the bills shown in the trailer feature fictional presidents from collectible cigarette cards found in Red Dead Redemption 2.

  • While these connections suggest a cohesive universe, Rockstar Games has yet to officially confirm any shared narrative between the two franchises.

  • GTA VI is set to be released on May 26, 2026, for PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, which may further validate the shared universe theory.

  • However, some fans argue that the use of real-life locations in Red Dead, like New York and San Francisco, indicates that the games may not coexist within the same universe.

  • Despite differing settings, other Rockstar titles have hinted at a cohesive universe through shared landmarks and recurring cities, enhancing narrative ties.

  • Previous GTA titles have also included Easter eggs referencing Red Dead, such as books authored by 'J. Marston' in GTA 5, reinforcing the connection.

Summary based on 2 sources


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